Alcazaba de Loja

The archaeological remains found in the Alcazaba de Loja attest to the existence of a settlement in Iberian and Roman times. It dates from the 9th century. The Moorish town of Medina Lawsa was built over these remains and organised around the Citadel that became the focal point of the town where those with political and military power lived.
Fernando III 'the Saint', Pedro I 'the Cruel' and the Catholic Monarchs all conquered this Moorish fortress at different times and it is undoubtedly the most significant historical heritage in Loja.

Many of its walls and towers are still standing: the recently restored keep has two interior floors and there is a magnificent octagonal dome next to a monumental arch through which access to the interior is gained. It houses the Town's Historical Museum together with the Caserón de los Alcaides. Other towers include the Ochovada and Agua towers as well as the towers of Las Almenas, El Maestre and Basurto that are in somewhat worse condition.